Ep 1. Lena Horne: In Her Own Voice

Lena Horne was a trailblazing African American performer who broke barriers in the Hollywood film industry. In American Masters season 11 episode 1, entitled "Lena Horne: In Her Own Voice," viewers gain a never-before-seen look into Horne's life and career through her own words. Featuring archival footage, rare recordings, and intimate interviews with Horne herself, this episode provides a thorough exploration of one of the most important figures in American entertainment history.

The episode begins with Horne's upbringing in a middle-class Black family in Brooklyn, New York. From a young age, Horne showed an interest and talent for music, but it wasn't until she was discovered by a talent scout that she began to pursue a career in entertainment. Horne's rise to fame was marked by a series of firsts - she was the first Black woman to sign a long-term contract with a major Hollywood studio (MGM), the first to sing on network radio, and the first to perform at the famed Copacabana nightclub in New York City.

Despite these groundbreaking accomplishments, Horne still faced discrimination and racism. Studios would often cut her scenes from films that were shown in the Deep South, and she was forbidden from performing for integrated audiences. Horne was also a vocal supporter of the Civil Rights Movement, which led to a backlash from some studios and fans who opposed her political views.

The episode explores Horne's personal life in addition to her professional milestones. Viewers see the impact that racism had on Horne's romantic relationships - she was married twice, but both marriages ended due to pressure from the media and society at large. Additionally, Horne faced criticism from some members of the Black community who felt that her light skin and conventionally attractive features made her an inappropriate representative for Black culture.

Throughout the episode, Horne's own voice guides viewers through her experiences. Interview footage with Horne from throughout the years offers insight into her thoughts on her success, her struggles with racism and discrimination, and her involvement in political activism. Interspersed with these interviews are clips of Horne performing some of her most iconic songs, including "Stormy Weather" and "The Man I Love."

"Lena Horne: In Her Own Voice" is a comprehensive look into the life and career of a true icon. Through her own words, viewers gain a deeper understanding of the challenges that Horne faced as a Black woman in the entertainment industry, as well as the impact that she had on American culture. This episode is a must-see for anyone interested in the history of Hollywood and the Civil Rights Movement.